Date of death: 12/4/2024
Saint Meinrad Class: O 1958
At the age of 95, Gene passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, in Jeffersonville, Indiana.
Gene was born to a large family in Germantown, Louisville, KY May 27, 1929. His late parents, Petronella and Frederick Trott, instilled in their oldest child, Gene, a special resilience and ambition.
A man of great intellect, Gene was passionate about education and lifelong learning. Though he left school as a child to help support his family, he never stopped pursuing his academic goals. He earned his GED through evening classes, then went on to receive a BS, MS, and PhD in Physical Chemistry, all from the University of Louisville. Throughout his career, Gene was granted multiple patents across various countries for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of chemistry. He worked for over five decades with companies such as Pillsbury, General Electric, Burton Rubber Processing, and retired as Vice President of American Synthetic Rubber Corp where he oversaw the Technical Department responsible for quality control, quality assurance and research and development.
Gene is preceded in death by his beloved wife Joyce Hannan Trott, daughter Ann Trott, parents, and sisters, Hilda Schweitzer (Joe), Mary Wibbels (Ronnie), and brother David Trott.
He is survived by his son Mark Trott, daughters Terri Isgrigg (Greg), Julie Burnett (Brian), granddaughters, Natalie McLochlin (Ayron), Katie Heath (Kyle), Molly Burnett, great-grandchildren, Blaire McLochlin, Sutton McLochlin as well as many nieces and nephews.
A devout Catholic, Gene was a long-time member of St. Boniface Catholic Church. He valued his faith and prioritized family above all else. Whether hunting with his son, cheering for the University of Louisville with his daughters, or vacationing in Florida with his loved ones, Gene cherished the time spent with his family. His dry sense of humor was legendary, and he kept his family on their toes with his playful quips.
Gene will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of intelligence, humor, and devotion to his family will be fondly remembered.